Families, volunteers and young players gathered at Shoalhaven Netball Association for what was expected to be a routine NetSetGO and Coaching Clinic — until netball great Jo Harten arrived with a surprise announcement.

Harten, visiting the region to support grassroots netball, revealed Shoalhaven had been awarded a $15,000 Woolworths Netball Grant, recognising the club’s ongoing commitment to growing the sport for local children.

The grant is part of the Woolworths Netball Grants program, which has delivered more than $1.5 million to 363 clubs nationwide since 2019.

For Shoalhaven — home to 829 registered players — the funding will focus on expanding opportunities for five- to 10-year-olds through its spring competition and helping introduce more children to netball in an accessible, supportive environment.

“Having someone like Woolworths involved at such a young level is amazing,” Harten said.

“Kids who enter the sport at five, six, seven years of age know the sport is already backed by such a huge organisation … it’s normal to them that their local supermarket is encouraging them to play.”

Harten, who earned an MBE in 2020 for her service to netball, said this kind of investment is vital for young players finding their feet in the game.

“At that grassroots level, you want to feel confident in your sport — like you can grow within it,” she said.

“It’s a really clever way to keep boys and girls in the game as they go to that professional level.”

Part of the funding will also support the growing Sussex Inlet Netball Club, Shoalhaven’s newest satellite club, which aims to build on its strong first year by creating more opportunities for local children to get involved.

Harten said support at the grassroots level is crucial, especially as women’s sport continues to grow across the country.

“Women's sport has seen a huge increase in participation,” she said.

“Netball — and the Suncorp Super Netball League — have really led the way.

"A traditionally female-owned sport is now standing on its own two feet, attracting major sponsors and showcasing women who are not only incredible athletes, but humble role models off the court in every way.”

Beyond the financial boost, Harten’s visit offered inspiration for both players and coaches. She spoke about her work with the Australian Netball Players’ Association, emphasising their focus on athlete well-being.

“An athlete is way more than the person that puts on the netball dress for 60 minutes every week,” she said.

“They’re rounded people with different goals and aspirations… ANPA really values the well-being of each and every one of the athletes.”

Her advice to young players was simple: prioritise joy and connection.

 “Have fun in all your pursuits,” she said.

“Look after your teammates, enjoy their company and always have fun playing for yourself.”